Prishtina, 13 January 2009
Speech by the Prime Minister of the Government of the Republic of Kosovo, Hashim Thaçi, at the Turkish Business Forum
Honorable Foreign Minister Babacan (Babaçan),
Honorable members of the Turkish delegation,
Honorable businessmen,
Honorable guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is my great pleasure to welcome you to the Republic of Kosovo.
I am also extremely pleased to see so many businessmen here – this Forum must be made concrete with as much contact as possible between you, since you are the engine of development in our two countries.
Since 1999 and up to today, the Turkish Government and its people have continued to be a strong supporter in political, military and financial aspects. On this occasion, I want to thank the Turkish Government and people for their participation in the Donors’ Conference in which they set aside 30 million euros for Kosovo.
The recognition of the independence of Kosovo by over 53 states reflects the support that the new state of Kosovo enjoys in the international arena and the legitimate right of the people of Kosovo to create the conditions to live free and with dignity.
Kosovo is a new state with a broad range of needs for development.
Our Government has identified its key priorities, amongst a broad range of development priorities, which will start Kosovo on the path towards economic growth and prosperity. These are:
– Establishing the complete rule of law and fighting against corruption wherever it appears;
– Exploiting our natural resources for the production of energy;
– Improving our transport network;
– Improving the quality of education;
– Reducing poverty and creating social stability, and;
– Investing in agriculture and rural development.
The Government of the Republic of Kosovo has made clear progress in creating a favorable atmosphere for business.
The economy of Kosovo has made considerable progress from its condition after the war in 1999. Tax policies and administration are good; the tax basis is broad and the level of taxation is low.
We have lowered taxes even further so that Kosovo will be more attractive for foreign investors. Corporate income tax is now 10%. A liberal market regime exists with a modest tariff structure. The financial system has a solid foundation. The use of the Euro currency has kept inflation at European levels.
During these past years, Kosovo has made significant progress in maintaining macro-economic stability, which has been reflected in sustainable economic growth of 5%, maintaining the inflation level and increasing annual income per capita.
Kosovo offers many possibilities for investment:
- A wealth of natural resources: coal, lead, zinc, nickel and fertile cultivable land;
- A young and motivated population (70% under the age of 35);
- Free access to the market of the EU and neighboring country markets;
- A modern legal framework in harmony with the EU;
- An official currency: the Euro.
For this reason we have created a suitable atmosphere for investment offering foreign investors:
- National treatment (Foreign investors are treated like domestic investors);
- A guarantee for the unlimited use of revenues;
- An easy and simple procedure for the registration of business (inside one day);
The Free Trade Agreement is being implemented between our two countries, but cooperation in other fields must be intensified even further.
The Republic of Kosovo welcomes Turkish investment in Kosovo.
Kosovo needs your investment, you are welcome and you will have my unlimited support.
I am convinced that this Forum will be very productive.
Allow me, in conclusion, to express once again my pleasure to be taking part in this meeting and for this excellent cooperation with Turkey.
Thank you.
